Rigid ankle taping is commonly used to provide support, stability, and protection for the ankle joint. It is especially beneficial for managing injuries such as sprains or preventing further injury during physical activity. Follow these step-by-step instructions for safe and effective application of rigid tape.
Materials Needed
- Rigid sports tape (38 mm wide is commonly used).
- Pre-wrap or hypoallergenic underwrap (optional for sensitive skin).
- Scissors or tape cutter.
Preparation
- Position the Foot:
- The person being taped should sit comfortably with their leg extended.
- The ankle should be in a neutral position (90° angle between the foot and shin). Avoid excessive pointing (plantarflexion) or lifting (dorsiflexion) of the toes.
- Skin Preparation:
- Clean the skin and ensure it is dry and free of oils or lotions.
- Shave the area if necessary to minimise discomfort during tape removal.
- Apply hypoallergenic underwrap if the skin is sensitive or prone to irritation.
Demonstration
Step-by-Step Taping Instructions
1. Anchor Strips:
- Begin by applying two anchor strips around the lower calf, approximately 10 cm above the ankle joint.
2. Stirrup Strips:
- Starting on the inner side of the calf anchor, pull the tape down under the heel and up to the outer calf anchor.
- Apply two stirrup strips, overlapping each by half the tape width, to provide lateral (side-to-side) support.
5. Heel Lock:
- Start on one side of the ankle, wrap the tape around the back of the heel, and bring it back up to the opposite side.
- Repeat on the other side of the ankle.
- This technique helps secure the heel and limits unwanted movement.
6. Figure-6 Pattern:
- Starting on the inside of the ankle, bring the tape across the front of the foot, under the arch, and back up to the starting side.
- Repeat in the opposite direction to cover both sides of the ankle.
7. Close-Up Strips:
- Use short strips to fill in any gaps and secure the edges of the tape.
- Ensure all layers are smooth and firmly adhered, with no wrinkles or loose sections.
8. Final Anchor:
- Reapply an anchor strip around the lower calf to secure the stirrups and finish the taping.
Self-taping variation:
Post-Taping Checks
- Comfort: Ensure the person being taped can move their toes freely, and there is no numbness, tingling, or pain.
- Circulation: Check for signs of restricted blood flow, such as discolouration or swelling in the toes.
- Functionality: The taping should feel supportive and stable, limiting excessive movement without being overly restrictive.
Tips for Effective Taping
- Avoid excessive tension when applying the tape to prevent discomfort or circulation issues.
- Overlap each strip by about half its width to create a secure and durable taping job.
- Practice the technique multiple times to improve efficiency and precision.
- Remove tape after use to avoid skin irritation. Use adhesive remover or soak the tape in warm water if necessary.
Information is provided for education purposes only. Always consult your physiotherapist or other health professional before applying taping techniques.